What is a lis pendens? (CCP § 405.21) A lis pendens – also called a notice of pendency of action – is a special type of legal document filed with a county recorder. Though its use is limited to lawsuits involving real property claims, its effect is powerful.
Removing a Lis Pendens in California Other than resolution of the pending lawsuit, the only way to remove a lis pendens is by expungement, which requires a court order from a circuit judge.
To file a lis pendens, the party filing must have or show one of two things: That there is a recorded instrument, usually some mortgage or encumbrance, or perhaps something related to a construction mechanics lien—that potentially provides the filer the right to the property on or in the document.
There is no specific time frame for how long a lis pendens is valid. Rather, a lis pendens is valid until it is expunged or the underlying case is resolved. If not expunged, a lis pendens is often removed as part of a settlement agreement reached between the parties.
Once a Notice of State Tax Lien is recorded or filed against you, the lien: Becomes public record. Attaches to any California real or personal property you currently own or may acquire in the future. Is effective for at least 10 years (may be extended)
A lis pendens must be filed with both the county recorder and the circuit court clerk. After the action has reached pending status, the lis pendens must be drafted and submitted to the county recorder to be recorded for public record. This does not end this part of the process.
How to Put a Lis Pendens on a California Property Draft the lis pendens. There is a specific format and particular language that must be included for a proper lis pendens filing. Serve the lis pendens to all interested parties. Record the lis pendens with the County Recorder. File the lis pendens with the circuit court.
Create a document to serve as the notice Use a title that clearly identifies the document as a Notice of Lis Pendens. Include all of the required information in the document, such as a legal description of the property, the names of the parties involved, and a statement of the claim.
To record a deed in California, you must submit the completed deed along with the appropriate fees to the County Recorder's Office in the county where the property is located. The deed will then be officially recorded, making it a part of the public record.
A lis pendens can only be filed if an action is pending. Additionally, the pending suit must involve real property, such as land and buildings. If these requirements are not met, the notice can be expunged.